April 19, 2025

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Gas Fire Pit?

Thinking about adding a cosy gas fire pit or fire table to your outdoor space? Well, before you start imagining those perfect evenings spent basking in warmth, you might wonder—how much does it actually cost to run one? Spoiler alert: it’s between £1.50 and £3.00 per hour. Keep reading to learn more about the factors that influence these costs and how to save a bit on your gas bills while keeping your outdoor space toasty!

Factors Affecting Running Costs

When it comes to running a gas fire pit, it’s not just about lighting a match and watching the flames flicker. Several factors come into play that can make your fuel costs rise or fall. Let’s break it down.

Gas Bottle Size and Type

The type and size of the gas bottle you use are critical when it comes to cost. Whether you’re using propane or natural gas, these choices can impact your monthly expenses significantly.

Propane vs. Natural Gas

If you already have a natural gas line at home, you’re in luck—this is often the cheaper option for running a fire pit. Natural gas is generally more affordable per unit, and since it’s supplied directly from your home, you won’t need to worry about constantly refilling tanks. Propane, on the other hand, is more expensive per unit and requires you to keep an eye on your tank levels. If you don’t have a natural gas line or live in an area without easy access to it, propane is the way to go, but it will cost you more in the long run.

Cost per Unit of Gas

The cost of each type of gas can vary greatly. Propane can range from £2.50 to £3.00 per gallon, while natural gas might cost around £1.50 per therm. This difference adds up quickly, especially if you plan to use your fire pit regularly.

Fire Pit BTU Rating

The BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating is another important factor that will directly affect your running costs. A fire pit with a higher BTU rating produces more heat, but it also burns through more fuel.

Higher BTU Means More Gas Consumption

A fire pit with a 60,000 BTU rating will use considerably more gas than a 40,000 BTU model. If you want that extra warmth on chilly nights, expect to pay a little more at the pump (or in this case, the gas bottle).

Understanding BTU and Heat Output

In simple terms, the BTU rating tells you how much heat your fire pit will produce. A higher rating means a hotter flame, which may be perfect for those winter nights, but it also means higher fuel consumption. So, if you’re not looking to break the bank every time you light up, a smaller BTU might be your best bet.

Usage and Flame Settings

How often you use your fire pit, as well as the settings you choose for the flame, will also impact your gas costs.

Frequency and Duration of Use

The more frequently you use your fire pit, the higher your fuel bills will be. A few hours of use per week can add up, especially during the colder months when you’re using it more often for warmth. If you’re having regular evening gatherings, expect your monthly gas usage to rise.

High vs. Low Flame Settings

Here’s a quick tip: turn down the flame! Running your fire pit on high settings will use much more gas than keeping the flame on low. On a breezy summer evening, a moderate flame might be all you need, and it can save you some cash in the process. It’s all about finding that balance between comfort and cost.

Calculating Running Costs

Now that we’ve covered the key factors that affect costs, let’s dive into how you can actually calculate what running your fire pit will cost you.

Estimating Gas Consumption

The easiest way to estimate the cost of running your fire pit is by looking at its BTU rating and how long you plan to use it. Let’s say your fire pit uses 50,000 BTUs per hour and you run it for three hours. With natural gas at £1.50 per therm, the cost for three hours would be roughly £4.50. Propane, being more expensive, could cost you around £7.50 for the same usage.

Relating BTU, Gas Cost, and Time

The key here is to understand the relationship between the BTU rating, the cost per unit of gas, and how long you run the fire pit. If you use a fire pit with a high BTU rating for several hours a week, your monthly costs will quickly add up. Use your fire pit wisely, and it won’t cost you a fortune.

Example Calculations

Let’s break it down with an example:

Your fire pit has a 50,000 BTU rating.
You use it for 3 hours.
Propane costs £2.50 per gallon, and your fire pit uses 1 gallon per hour.

So, in total, running your fire pit would cost £7.50. Compare this with natural gas, which may cost around £4.50 for the same duration, and it’s easy to see how fuel type can significantly affect costs.

Comparing Costs for Different Gas Types

As we mentioned earlier, the cost of propane is typically higher than natural gas. But how much more are you paying, really? Let’s take a closer look.

Propane vs. Natural Gas Costs

If you have access to natural gas, it’s usually the more cost-effective option. As long as you have the proper setup, you can enjoy lower fuel costs. But if you’re relying on propane, be prepared for higher fuel prices and the need for tank refills. Ultimately, the decision depends on your home setup and how often you plan to use your fire pit.

Tips for Reducing Running Costs

Who says you can’t enjoy a cosy fire without burning a hole in your wallet? Here are a few tips to help you reduce your gas usage while still staying warm.

Using Lower Flame Settings

It’s tempting to crank up the flames, but you don’t always need to go full throttle. Running your fire pit on a lower setting will reduce gas consumption, especially on warmer nights when you’re just looking for a bit of ambience.

Balancing Heat and Gas Consumption

Sometimes, less really is more. A moderate flame setting can provide just enough heat without sending your gas bill skyrocketing. Play around with the flame until you find the sweet spot for both warmth and cost-effectiveness.

Optimising Fire Pit Efficiency

The more efficient your fire pit is, the less gas it will use. Wind protection and proper maintenance are two simple but effective ways to maximise efficiency.

Wind Protection and Proper Maintenance

If you’re using your fire pit outdoors, wind can cause the heat to dissipate, meaning your fire pit has to work harder (and use more gas). Consider using windbreakers or placing the fire pit in a sheltered area. Also, keep your fire pit clean and in good condition—regular maintenance will help it run more efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Choosing the Right Gas Type

While propane might be your only option if you’re not connected to the natural gas grid, if you do have a choice, think long term. Natural gas might be cheaper, but there are installation costs to consider. Weigh up the initial setup cost and the ongoing fuel expenses to choose the best option for your budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, running a gas fire pit doesn’t have to break the bank if you take the right steps. By understanding the factors that affect fuel consumption, like gas type, BTU rating, and usage frequency, you can make informed decisions that keep your outdoor space warm and inviting without sending your energy bills into overdrive. Keep in mind a few cost-saving tips, and you’ll be enjoying your fire pit year-round—guilt-free.